Treated And Natural Turquoise Jewelry Minnesota

Turquoise jewelry is perhaps the only kind of gemstone jewelry that has so many variants and therefore such a wide range of pricing. The variety of these amazing gemstones doesn't only stop at its color but also in the way that it is treated. Of course one also has to take into account the large amount of created and fake stone that are in the market and the turquoise jewelry that is made from them.

Pricing turquoise jewelry

What makes pricing of turquoise jewelry so difficult is the variety. Turquoise mines are sprinkled all over the globe and the stone that comes from these mines all differ in quality and variety. There are also mines that are no longer functional. These mines sometimes give away stones that are collector items. Then there is also the factor of preference. The price of a turquoise stone also depends on the demand for a particular variety. If you are interested in buying genuine turquoise jewelry or the gemstone, it would be advisable to buy it from a jeweler that you trust and who has been in the business for a long time.

Stabilization of a turquoise gemstone

Almost all turquoise jewelry is made for the gemstone that is stabilized. This is because natural turquoise is too soft and porous and cannot be worked with. However it is important to understand that stabilized turquoise is not fake turquoise. It is a perfectly natural gemstone. The stabilization process of a turquoise stone takes place by submerging it into a stabilizing compound like epoxy resin. When this is done the natural action of the capillaries draws the compound into the stone. The stone is then dried and it is now usable and can be drilled, cut etc. to make fine jewelry as it is no longer porous. This is how jewelry artisans all over are able to make turquoise jewelry with tiny beads etc.

Color shot stabilization

Another kind of stabilization that is done is color stabilization. This process is similar to the one above but it is not really a natural gemstone as it is infused with color to enhance the existing color of the gemstone. This process does not really make the stone a bad one, but it does reduce the value of the stone. On the other hand piece of jewelry in question might require a color enhancement. There are plenty of these stones available in the market as well.

Stones that give the illusion of turquoise

While the stabilization process for a turquoise stone is good for the stone, one also needs to be aware of fake stones in the market. Most of these stones are make from plastic and the easiest way to tell the difference is by bringing a hot pin in contact with the stone. When the pin touches the surface of the stone it will give off the unmistakable smell of resin and will leave a deep mark on the stone. There are other false turquoise stones as well like the dyed Howelite and the stove top synthetics. All of these can do a pretty good job of deceiving you if you don't know what you are buying.

Queen Bee Jewelry offers a wide variety of turquoise jewelry and sterling silver jewelry.

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